Mastering mixology is akin to mastering any craft… it requires the right tools. Mixologists rely on a unique set of equipment, each serving a specific purpose in the intricate dance of cocktail creation. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, having the essentials is paramount to create the perfect drink.

It is all in the technique.

In the world of mixology, there are three fundamental techniques: shaking, stirring, and building. Each technique brings out distinct flavours and textures, demanding different tools for their execution.

Shaking cocktails is a dynamic process essential for blending ingredients like juices, dairy, egg whites, and solid components such as fruits and herbs. The choice of shaker is crucial here. You have three main options: the Boston shaker, the Cobbler shaker, and the French shaker.

The Boston shaker, composed of two cups that snugly fit together, offers a tight seal, ensuring no spills during vigorous shaking.

Lastly, the French shaker, similar to the Boston shaker but with a different shape, requires a separate Hawthorne strainer for effective pouring.

Stirring is reserved for cocktails comprising clear ingredients, predominantly distilled liquor. This technique gently integrates the components while preserving their clarity and texture. A mixing glass is the go-to vessel for stirring, accompanied by a long-handled bar spoon. Once mixed, a Julep strainer facilitates the smooth transfer of the cocktail into a chilled serving glass, ready for the final flourish of garnish.

Built cocktails are one of the most common methods of cocktail creation and one of the easiest for mixology beginners. Building a cocktail is about layering ingredients, one after the other until the drink is complete. These cocktails are more simple, with no reason for shaking, stirring, or throwing. This method is usually reserved for chilled drinks that are served over ice and contain fewer ingredients. Cocktails are typically built for aesthetic purposes, much like a Tequila Sunrise.

A mixologist is only as good as their tools. To begin your mixology journey, you don’t need to be excessive, but it would be wise to invest in a simple, yet well-rounded collection of bar tools. Here’s a rundown of the essentials:

• Boston-style shakers are favoured by many professionals for their efficient design, comprising two cups that create a secure seal.
• Alternatively, Cobbler shakers offer convenience with a built-in strainer, making them ideal for those who prefer simplicity. 

• Essential for stirring cocktails, a mixing glass facilitates the gentle integration of ingredients without the need for a separate strainer.

• A bar spoon and a mixing glass go hand in hand. A long-handled bar spoon is indispensable for mixing and layering drinks, ensuring thorough blending of ingredients.

• Precision is key in mixology, and a jigger provides accurate measurements, minimising the risk of over-pouring and ensuring consistency in flavour.
• Mixologists utilise this tool to reduce over-pouring and remain consistent when crafting cocktails.

• For cocktails requiring muddled ingredients such as fruits and herbs, a muddler is essential for extracting flavours and aromas effectively. The key is to press ingredients enough to extract the flavours without compromising the integrity of the product.

• Depending on your choice of shaker, you'll need either a Hawthorne strainer for Boston shakers or a Cobbler shaker with a built-in strainer.
• The process of straining cocktails with this tool is known as ‘fine straining’.

• While a variety of glassware exists, versatile options like rocks, highball, and coupe glasses suffice for most cocktails, catering to different serving styles and drink types. 
• A highball (collins) glass contains 240 to 350 mL and is used to serve tall mixed drinks.
• The rocks (old fashioned, whiskey or lowball) glass is a short tumbler used for serving spirits or certain cocktails such as the old fashioned. 
• A coupe glass is a stemmed cocktail glass with a round bowl and straight, wide sides. These are ideal for champagne and cocktails. The unique shape allows scents and flavours to be taken in which otherwise may be missed in a champagne flute.

• If you’re looking to level up your cocktail creations a cocktail smoker could be perfect for your at-home bar. Also known as smoking guns, these tools are used to add hints of smoke to drinks.  

• Essentially, wood chips are placed into the device, it is lit, and the unit coaxes smoke through a tube into a glass or vessel. Smoke is a clever way to add another layer of complexity to popular cocktails.

Whether mixology is your profession or passion, having the right tools is essential for crafting exceptional cocktails. As you delve deeper into the world of mixology, you'll discover new techniques, flavours, and combinations, continuously refining your craft. With centuries of tradition and innovation shaping the landscape of cocktail culture, there's always something new to explore and create. So, arm yourself with the right tools, unleash your creativity, and let the magic of mixology unfold!